Corrugated Metal Roofing: Everything You Need to Know

Despite being popular for agricultural building use, corrugated metal roofing continues to be a favored roofing material for both residential and commercial property owners. 

This is all thanks to the material’s:

• Versatility
• Durability
• Longevity
• Low maintenance nature

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about corrugated metal roofing so you can make a more informed decision when choosing a new roof for your home or commercial building. Keep reading to learn more.

What Exactly Is Corrugated Metal Roofing?

“Corrugated” refers to the repeated pattern of ridges or waves. The overall corrugated metal roof design was brought about over a hundred years ago, and it quickly gained popularity because of its prefabrication ability which allowed it to be quickly manufactured and used by workers with lesser skills in building and construction applications.

Corrugated metal roofing is essentially made from metal sheets that are roll-formed into metal panels. The roofing material is also something referred to as exposed fastener panels, as each fastener is visible on the panel’s surface after installation.

Corrugated metal roofing is also typically made from:

• Stainless steel
• Galvanized steel
• Coated carbon steel
• Aluminum 
• Copper
• Metal amalgams

How a Corrugated Metal Roof Is Made

Corrugated metal roofing is among the easiest to manufacture due to its roll-forming process (also called a cold-form process). Below is the process in a nutshell:

• First, a flat piece of the metal material is chosen.
• The material is then pressed into 3D corrugated patterns involving a machine with a series of rollers.
• There are different roller arrangements that are used to create different types of corrugation regarding the sizes of the waves and angles — so depending on the order, a roller arrangement will be chosen.
• The corrugated panels are then cut and trimmed to the exact lengths specified for each project.

The cold-rolling process produces a thicker and stronger end product compared to hot-rolled metal, which is why it’s currently the go-to process. This means the end product — your roof — is strong, sturdy, and will protect your home or building for years to come.

How Much Does Corrugated Metal Roofing Cost?

On average, corrugated metal roofing can cost anywhere between $350 and $650 per panel. Of course, the price points of corrugated metal depend heavily upon the following factors:

• The sizing specifications of the project
• The amount of metal needed to meet the sizing specifications of the project
• The type of metal chosen to manufacture the corrugated sheets
• Whether or not customization is needed
• The type of gauge (thickness) needed for the project

It’s also important to consider the installation process of corrugated metal roofing, as that will also factor into the ultimate costs. 

For example, the installation process involves several components, including:

• The trimmed panels
• Fasteners and other hardware
• Clips
• Closures
• Other materials needed (which will depend on the project itself)

Therefore, the best way to get an accurate quote for corrugated metal roofing is to speak with a professional roofing contractor to get an estimate for the potential project.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Corrugated Metal Roofing

When you’re deciding between a corrugated metal roof and another type of roofing material, you’ll want to think about the advantages and disadvantages associated with it.

✅ The Advantages of Corrugated Metal:

• ⏳ Longevity. A corrugated metal roof will last much longer compared to other roofing materials, just as metal roofing does. Generally speaking, you can expect it to last between 40 and 70 years with proper care and maintenance. 
• 💪 Durability. The durability of corrugated metal roofing is excellent and one of its greatest advantages. Between its wavy design and overall material makeup, corrugated metal panels are able to withstand the elements better than other materials time and time again.
• 🙌 Low level of maintenance required. Metal, in general, is the easiest roofing material to maintain. A metal roof won’t require frequent cleanings, repainting, or periodic staining. Most corrugated metal roofs require a simple annual inspection to ensure their exposed fastener system is in good working order. When cleaning is needed, all it takes is a thorough rinse and wipe-down — that’s it!
• ♻️ It’s the greener choice. Metal panels are considered eco-friendly thanks to the fact that they’re sustainably produced, long-lasting, and highly recyclable. Because a metal roof is also good at retaining heat while also cooling down fast, it can save you money on your heating and cooling costs as well, which cuts down on the need for a constantly running HVAC system.
• 🤸 It’s versatile. Corrugated paneling can be used for several different applications beyond roofing. This includes siding, accent walls, and even wainscoting. It can also be painted to match your preferred aesthetic.

❌ The Disadvantages of Corrugated Metal:

• 🔩 It comes with an exposed fastener system. Corrugated metal roofing uses an exposed fastener system for installation to secure the panels. It can also be used on the inside of the panels so that the hardware is hidden. However, because of the fasteners, this type of roofing does need to be inspected annually to ensure that rust isn’t forming, washers are still intact, and the fasteners themselves aren’t coming loose.
• 💰 It’s more costly upfront. Compared to other roofing materials like asphalt shingles, corrugated metal is a little more expensive upfront. This is in part due to the manufacturing process as well as the installation. However, it’s a worthwhile investment because of how long the material lasts and how little maintenance is required to keep it in good working condition.

Is Corrugated Metal Right For You?

Whether you’re a homeowner or a commercial business owner, corrugated metal roofing will make an excellent choice if you’re looking for an investment that keeps on giving. Want to learn more about your metal roofing options in Georgia? The professionals at Whitt’s Quality Roofing can walk you through those options and help you make the right choice for your roofing needs. Give us a call today and schedule your free inspection and get a free and accurate estimate!